taxol mechanism

[cclark9]

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I've taken two practice tests now that have questions on taxol, an anticancer drug that stabilizes microtubules. While the EK test argued that the drug stabilizes microtubules during polymerization in prophase, the Kaplan test argues that the microtubules are stabilized and affected in anaphase. Does anyone have an opinion on which one I should rely on for a correct explanation?

I don't have the text from the EK test but this is from the Kaplan one

 

[aldol16]

I don't think you should be concerned with memorizing this material. Chances are, you'll never see it again. What's important is that you can use the information given in the passage to answer the questions.

 

[aldol16]

On a side note, if you're interested in organic synthesis, Prof. Nicolaou is known for his total synthesis of Taxol and it is quite elegant.

 

[cclark9]

On a side note, if you're interested in organic synthesis, Prof. Nicolaou is known for his total synthesis of Taxol and it is quite elegant.

I would agree with you but the only thing is that from the passage it was never indicated which phase microtubule stabilization would cause problems- when it's forming or when it's in use. I guess I should just rephrase the question as to how to know whether the cell is most affected by taxol in prophase or anaphase because they were both options on the Kaplan test

 

[aldol16]

I would agree with you but the only thing is that from the passage it was never indicated which phase microtubule stabilization would cause problems- when it's forming or when it's in use. I guess I should just rephrase the question as to how to know whether the cell is most affected by taxol in prophase or anaphase because they were both options on the Kaplan test

Ah, then it would depend on the context and wording of the question. Microtubules form in a specific phase and do different things in different phases. The answer to the question would depend on what the question(s) state exactly.